Suffolk: Horticulturists David Clark and Jim Blythe honoured by the RHS
TWO Suffolk men are among a total of 15 horticulturists to be honoured by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) for their outstanding contribution to the industry.
David Clark is to be awarded the Victoria Medal of Honour, the highest accolade the society awards. Only 63 horticulturists hold the VMH at one time, marking the length of Queen Victoria’s reign, and David is only one of four this year to receive the medal.
He has received the award for his contribution to the British nursery trade, the RHS and specifically the Notcutts company which he joined in 1967 as a garden centre director. He is also well known world-wide as a plant propagator and for starting container plant production.
Jim Blythe is one of three people to receive the Associate of Honour from the RHS. This award is conferred on those of British nationality who have rendered distinguished service to horticulture in the course of their working life.
There are five recipients of the Veitch Memorial Award, given to those who it is felt have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of the art, science and practice of horticulture, and two recipients of the Harlow Carr Medal for their significant contribution to horticulture in the north of England.
Ian Butterfield from Bourne End, Buckinghamshire has been awarded the Reginald Cory Cup for his hybridisation programme within Pleione which has resulted in the recent introduction and availability of new hybrids of merit.
The 15 horticulturists will be honoured at a ceremony at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, from July 3 to 8 and will be presented with either medals or a cup.
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“I am delighted to announce the recipients of this year’s awards,” said Elizabeth Banks, RHS president. “These are very special people and their contribution to horticulture has been outstanding. Their work has been wide-ranging and impacts on most aspects of gardening and is an inspiration to everyone.”
